How to Increase Hemoglobin Levels

Hemoglobin is the iron-rich protein present in the red blood cells of vertebrates. In certain invertebrates, this protein is found in the tissues. The iron-containing pigment in hemoglobin is called 'hematin' and the protein part is termed 'globin'. The main function of hemoglobin is to transport oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues, where the oxygen is required to provide energy for the chemical reactions in the living cells. Carbon dioxide, which is released as a byproduct of these chemical reactions, is taken back to the lungs for exhalation. As the role of hemoglobin in human body is vital for leading a healthy life, it is very much necessary to maintain the level of this pigment in blood. This article is about how to increase hemoglobin levels.

Hemoglobin Count

An average male should have a hemoglobin level of 13.5 to 16.5 gm/dl, while for women it should be within 12.1 to 15.1 gm/dl. For children, a hemoglobin range of 11 to 16 gm/dl is normal, while for pregnant women, it should be between 11 to 12 gm/dl. If the level of hemoglobin in the blood is less than normal, then the condition is called anemia. Anemia can be caused by various reasons, the most common being deficiency of iron. Iron deficiency in the body affects synthesis of hemoglobin and causes iron deficiency anemia, which is characterized by smaller red blood cells sans the red pigment - hemoglobin. Iron deficiency may be the result of blood loss through bleeding ulcers or piles, or a diet, which is low in iron. Other causes of anemia include problems related to bone marrow, chemotherapy medication, kidney failure, sickle cell anemia, worm infestation, etc. In short, a low hemoglobin count may be due to factors like a diet with less iron content or certain medical conditions. Even conditions like pregnancy may cause a dip in hemoglobin levels in females. While a slight decrease from the normal levels of hemoglobin is usually not a major problem, drastic variations may indicate an underlying medical problem or grave iron-deficiency. You can normalize the condition by treating the underlying cause or by modifying the diet with supplements.

How to Increase Hemoglobin Levels

Treatment for anemia depends on the cause of the disease. In case of iron deficiency anemia, treatment includes taking iron supplements and food rich in iron. It is believed that iron in food from animal sources are more beneficial in increasing hemoglobin levels, when compared to that from plant sources. Certain vitamins and minerals are also found to be beneficial, as they aid production of hemoglobin, in the body. Some herbs are also used for increasing the hemoglobin levels. Go through the following table to know more about the foods, vitamins and herbs that are useful for increasing hemoglobin count.

Fruits and Vegetables Green leafy vegetables Tomatoes, Broccoli Brussels sprouts Red capsicum, Beans Cabbage, Peas, Beets Asparagus, Corn Orange, Cantaloupe Pineapple, Grapefruit Banana, Raspberry Strawberry, Guava Papayas, Kiwi fruit Black currants, Mango Lychee, Sprouts

Other Foods Poultry, Eggs Shellfish, Fish Red meat, Liver Molasses, Lentils Fortified cereals Dry fruits, Nuts Sunflower seeds Soymilk, Jaggery Whole bread Whole grains Baker's yeast Oat and Wheat bran Peanut butter

Vitamins and Herbs Iron Vitamin B6 Folic Acid Vitamin B12 Vitamin C Fenugreek seeds Dandelion greens Nettleleaf Dong Quai Aswagandha Spirulina Yellow dock root Carao fruit

• While taking iron supplements and iron-rich food, you have to avoid intake of certain food items, which affect the body's ability to absorb iron.
• These iron-blockers include tea, coffee, foods rich in fiber, foods with high levels of calcium (like milk, cheese, chocolate, caffeinated drinks) and some medicines with phosphates and antacids.
• It will be more beneficial if you take vitamin C supplements (or foods rich in vitamin C), along with iron supplements. Vitamin C is useful for increased absorption of iron in the body, which in turn increases hemoglobin levels.
• Iron supplements should be taken according to the prescription of your doctor. Some of the users may develop constipation and stomach upset. These supplements should not be taken in large quantities, as it can cause an iron overload, which could be toxic to the body.
• Even vitamins have to be taken as per the advice of the doctor. This applies to herbs and other supplements too.

In short, the above said foods, vitamins and herbs may prove helpful for increasing hemoglobin levels. However, low hemoglobin count may be due to underlying medical conditions and so, it is necessary to rule out the possibility of such diseases and disorders. If the condition is caused by blood loss due to bleeding ulcers, it is the ulcer that needs treatment, along with measures to increase hemoglobin count. In case of severe anemia, blood transfusion is also suggested, for a quick replacement of iron and hemoglobin. In short, decrease in hemoglobin count may be due to different reasons. If it is due to low intake of iron, then, iron supplements or a diet that is rich in this mineral will do. If there is any underlying medical condition that is causing the dip in hemoglobin, that condition has to be treated, so as to increase the hemoglobin levels.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.